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$131K

How much do powertrain control engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for powertrain control engineer in the United States is $96,574.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,500.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do powertrain control engineers make in the US?

Powertrain Control Engineers in the US typically earn between $80,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in engine management systems or automotive software may earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What are some typical challenges faced by powertrain control engineers when integrating new technologies into existing vehicle platforms?

Powertrain Control Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as electric or hybrid systems, into established vehicle platforms. These challenges include ensuring compatibility between new control algorithms and legacy hardware, meeting stringent emissions and performance standards, and managing complex calibration processes. Collaboration with cross-functional teams, including software developers, mechanical engineers, and testing specialists, is essential to address these hurdles. Staying up-to-date with evolving automotive standards and leveraging simulation tools can also help mitigate integration risks.

What does a powertrain control engineer do?

A Powertrain Control Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and calibrating the electronic control systems that manage a vehicle's powertrain, which includes the engine, transmission, and related components. They work to optimize performance, fuel efficiency, and emissions by developing control algorithms and software. These engineers often use simulation tools and testing procedures to ensure that vehicles meet regulatory standards and customer expectations. Their role is crucial in the development of modern vehicles, especially as automotive technology moves toward electrification and advanced driver assistance systems.

What is the difference between Powertrain Control Engineer vs Automotive Software Engineer?

AspectPowertrain Control EngineerAutomotive Software Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical, Electrical, or Automotive Engineering; experience with control systemsBachelor's or Master's in Software Engineering, Computer Science, or Electrical Engineering; programming skills
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing engine control units, working in automotive R&D labsDeveloping embedded software, coding, and testing in automotive or tech companies
Industry UsageAutomotive manufacturing, OEMs, Tier 1 suppliersAutomotive industry, tech firms, suppliers

Powertrain Control Engineers focus on designing and optimizing engine and transmission control systems, while Automotive Software Engineers develop embedded software for vehicle systems. Both roles require technical skills and work within the automotive industry, but their core responsibilities differ in hardware versus software development.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a powertrain control engineer?

To thrive as a Powertrain Control Engineer, you need expertise in automotive engineering, control systems, and embedded software development, typically supported by a degree in mechanical, electrical, or automotive engineering. Familiarity with tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, CANalyzer, and experience with calibration software or automotive control units is commonly required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and address complex technical challenges. These abilities are crucial for developing efficient, reliable powertrain systems that meet performance, safety, and regulatory standards.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Powertrain Control Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Powertrain Control Engineer jobs are:
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Powertrain Control Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Powertrain Control Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,574 per year, or $46.4 per hour.

Powertrain Engine Calibration Engineer - Intermediate - JK1954

Detroit Engineered Products

Auburn Hills, MI • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

  • The BEV/eMotor Calibration Engineer is responsible for supporting calibration development relative to motor control in the Hybrid Control Processor (HCP) from first dyno, into early mule vehicle to production on the next generation of Electrified Propulsion Systems.
    The scope of responsibility spans the application and optimization of control systems into production for all Hybrid and BEV Propulsion Systems.
    The engineer will document and justify all BEV/eMotor validation results and calibration changes through rigorous validation test plans - both on dyno and in vehicle.
    The engineer will present results to lead calibrator and Sr. Management as appropriate.
    The engineer will participate or lead the Center of Excellence team for their functional areas.
    They will coordinate validation test plans for calibration merges with other functional leads.
    The engineer will support dyno commissioning and first-run activities, thorough work breakdown structure execution and post-processing of data to ensure BEV/ emotor calibration functional objectives are met.
    This individual will have also demonstrated the ability to work will with others.
    They must be a team player, supporting and promoting team accomplishments versus personal achievement.
  • Requirements:
    Bachelor of Science in Mechanical, Electrical, or Computer Engineering
    Minimum of 3 Years BEV/ eMotor calibration experience
    Good oral and written communication skills with the ability to work independently and with others
    High level of analytic ability and creativity
    Ability to balance work effectively on multiple issues
    Action a disciplined test plan and verification process to ensure quality calibrations are released.
    Must have strong knowledge of the Powertrain system.
    Knowledge of control system development tools such as Matlab Simulink and GT Power
    Experience in Powertrain Control solutions development (powertrain control algorithms, On-board Diagnostics/OBD, embedded software)
    Knowledge of fundamentals of eMachines and Power Electronics and electrification power flow
    Experience in engine/transmission design and development and/or Powertrain Systems Engineering
    2 Years calibration experience in electrified propulsion or electric motor calibration

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